If you haven't figured it out yet, The Gnomes of Fibberton is an allegory for the struggles children face in dealing with the realities of truth and lies. But what is an allegory?
Allegory: A story, play, poem, picture, or other work in which the characters and events represent particular moral, religious, or political qualities or ideas.
Allegories have been with us since the written word began. Writers throughout time and across the world have used allegories to deliver stories to different audiences, especially children. Why use allegories?
Allegories allow you to tell a story removed from individual circumstances yet reveal a universal outcome. In the well-known allegory, "The Lion and The Mouse," the mighty lion spares the small, insignificant mouse, even though the lion has the power to devour him. Later, the mouse saves the lion. It’s a heartwarming allegory that applies to both rich and poor, weak and strong. It shows a cycle of good that comes from an act of mercy, regardless of intention.
The Gnomes of Fibberton is also an allegory. The unhappy little gnomes represent the state that children can find themselves in when they develop the unfortunate habit of lying. Fibberton, the world where the gnomes live, symbolizes the consequences that persistent dishonesty can bring.
Ultimately, the gnomes of Fibberton have an easy solution—at least in theory: tell the truth. But is telling the truth really that easy? Isn't it often a struggle, especially when there are unforeseen or unknown consequences? From my own experience with my children (and, not surprisingly, from my own childhood), I know that fear of the unknown consequence can be a big motivator to stay in "Fibberton"—to let the lie live on despite the negative outcomes that can arise from deception, lies, and half-truths.
I wrote The Gnomes of Fibberton to give parents a colorful, engaging, and meaningful conversation starter. Like other fables, the Gnomes of Fibberton represent children everywhere who share the same struggles as they grow and learn about the world. Use it as an opportunity to build trust with your children and help them understand that being honest with you is the best choice.
With love,
Becky
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